The Bulldogs have accepted an invitation to play in the prestigious Dec. 31 bowl and now the move is on to get the Red Wave out in force.

Details of a Fresno State invasion of Memphis are being worked out but the Alumni Association announced today it will participate in the Time Warner Cable Pre-Game Buffet at 9 a.m., prior to the noon kick-off.

Publicity from the announcement has already triggered interest, said LeticiaReyna, assistant director of the Alumni Association who coordinates its football game tailgates, both home and away.

“We have had several calls from fans wanting to know what kind of packages are available or what our plans are for pregame activities,” Reyna said. At last week’s USC game, 2,700 fans attended the Alumni Association’s Red Wave Tailgate to make it the largest ever in the organization’s history. (See www.fresnostate.net/RedWaveTailgate/USC.html).

University President John D. Welty expressed his appreciation for the community support – an estimated 20,000 Red Wavers cheered on the Dogs at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Nov. 19 – as well as the valiant Bulldogs’ effort against the nation’s No. 1 team.

“Central California’s Bulldog Spirit shone this past week as the Valley came alive,” Welty said. “We are thankful for this outpouring of support. I am very proud of Coach Hill, his staff, the players and our fans. We hope we will see similar support at the Liberty Bowl.”

For the Liberty Bowl, the buffet is targeted for pregame action in lieu of a tailgate, Reyna said.

One of the largest pre-game parties in the nation, this year's pre-game buffet will be held inside the Mid-South Coliseum across from the Liberty Bowl Memorial Coliseum. It features a "Battle of the Bands" and all you-can-eat-and-drink. Buffet admission is $30.

The Bulldog Marching Band is also working on plans to send a contingent to the Liberty Bowl.

The Alumni Association and the Fresno State Athletic Department have partnered with FAN-tastic Sports for several football travel packages -- call 1-877-326-7864.

Tickets for the game are $45 and are available for purchase through the Fresno State Ticket Office and through travel packages offered by FAN-tastic Sports. (See Web sites below).

All Bulldog fans attending the game are encouraged to support the university by purchasing tickets through one of these two outlets.

For more information, call 559.278-2586.